Virginia House Bill HB590

Virginia 2022 Regular Session

• Introduced: 1/11/22
• Refer: 1/11/22

Caption

Firearms; storage in residence where minor present, penalty.

Impact

If enacted, this bill would introduce a Class 1 misdemeanor penalty for individuals who fail to comply with the storage requirements. Each violation concerning different firearms would lead to separate misdemeanors, potentially increasing the legal repercussions for neglecting safe storage practices. Advocates of the bill argue that it is an essential step in safeguarding children from accidental firearm injuries, a concern that has drawn significant public attention in recent years.

Summary

House Bill 590 addresses the issue of firearm storage in residences where minors are present. Specifically, it mandates that firearms must be stored unloaded in a locked container when a minor under 18 years of age is present in the home. Furthermore, the ammunition must be stored in a separate locked container, ensuring that both are inaccessible to minors. This law aims to enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents involving firearms and children, promoting responsible gun ownership.

Contention

However, there are notable points of contention surrounding HB590. Opponents argue that the bill could unintentionally criminalize responsible gun owners who may forget or be unable to comply with the stringent storage requirements. Additionally, there are concerns raised regarding the practical implementation of such measures and whether they may infringe on personal freedoms related to firearm ownership. Balancing safety with individual rights remains a central challenge in the discussions surrounding this legislation.